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REVIEW: The Full Monty – A feast for the eyes at the Everyman Theatre!

Well, the ladies (and gents) of Cheltenham have certainly been in for a treat this month as the award-winning play, The Full Monty by Simon Beaufoy kicked off the first leg of their latest UK tour.

Based on the very successful film, the story follows a group of six unemployed steel workers who attempt to make themselves some much needed money by getting their ‘kit off’. Hoping to rival the likes of ‘The Chippendales’, they accidentally announce that they will go one better than the famous male act. So, no pressure lads!

Headed up by the excellent Gary Lucy as the cheeky chappy Gaz, the group face their insecurities to become the unlikely act. The cast is full of familiar names and they all complement each other brilliantly. We grew to love Andrew Dunn (Dinnerladies), who plays the long-suffering Gerald. Kai Owen plays Dave, who also gains a special little place in our hearts. Louis Emerick (Brookside) is a great mover who brushes his age aside as Horse. Depressed Lomper, played by Joe Gill (Emmerdale) and “larger than life” Guy (James Redmond – Hollyoaks) become an unlikely pairing. In this production the ladies also provided us with many a laugh – and we won’t forget the scene outside the club in a hurry! Jean (Liz Carney), Linda (Bryonie Pritchard) and Mandy (Amy Thompson) are certainly ladies that enjoy a good night out!

We all know the story, but if you’ve only ever seen the film you will be very surprised at how well the story is conveyed on the stage. I felt that it was more enjoyable as you actually become involved with the cast and your fellow audience members. The whole audience laughed from beginning to end, with the finale a raucous appreciation of the male form! My, oh my, how the ladies in the audience changed as the show progressed, with lots of seat shifting to get a better view. I think they all went home with BIG smiles on their faces. There was certainly a lot of post-show giggling!

Cheltenham is lucky enough to see The Full Monty embark on its latest tour. However, there is sad news in store, as it has been announced that this will be the last ever tour. Catch it at the Everyman Theatre before Saturday if you can.